Ministry and National Council for Persons with Disabilities Unite to Advance Accessibility

The Honourable Isaac Rankine, Minister of Social Development and Innovation, and Chief Officer Nellie Pouchie met with members of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) on 1 September 2025 to hear directly from the members about the challenges and opportunities facing persons with disabilities in the Cayman Islands and to strengthen collaboration on inclusivity efforts.

Council members shared lived experiences that illustrated ongoing challenges, including health insurance costs, access to reliable transportation, and limited social and recreational opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. They also emphasised the importance of ensuring that public spaces, buildings, and services continue to become more accessible so that everyone can fully participate in society.

The discussion also highlighted the NCPD’s Blue Spot campaign, which raises awareness about the importance of respecting designated parking for persons with disabilities. This initiative forms part of the Council’s broader efforts to encourage small, practical steps that can make everyday life more inclusive.

In addition to local matters, the NCPD confirmed plans to participate in the upcoming regional Caribbean Disability Conference from 17 to 22 October 2025. This second annual regional gathering, hosted by the Caribbean Disability Network (CDN) in collaboration with the Government of Barbados and local disability stakeholders, will focus on the theme “Breaking Barriers: Advancing Inclusive Education for All Abilities.” The event will bring together government officials, educators, disability advocates, civil society leaders, and persons with disabilities to share best practices, highlight lived experiences, and develop a Regional Declaration on Inclusive Education to guide future policy across the Caribbean.

The NCPD also reaffirmed its participation in the annual Cayman Islands Healthcare Conference taking place 23-25 October at the Ritz-Carlton, where members ensure that disability perspectives are consistently represented and integrated into health and social services planning.

The National Council for Persons with Disabilities is established within the Disabilities (Solomon Webster) Act, 2016 and its functions include promoting the recognition and acceptance of persons with disabilities within the islands as having the same fundamental rights as a person who does not have a disability. In the delivery of their functions, the NCPD advises the Cayman Islands Government on policies, programmes, and public awareness initiatives in line with the Cayman Islands Disability Policy (2014-2033). Its work ensures that the voices of persons with disabilities are central to decision-making, advocating for equality, accessibility, and opportunities to engage fully in Cayman Islands society.

Minister Rankine said:

"I applaud the dedication of the Council and support their efforts to improving the lives of persons with disabilities in the Cayman Islands. Now that the Council is aligned with our Ministry, it allows us to work more closely together to put accessibility and inclusion at the heart of our policies. The Government is committed to making continued efforts, including enhancements to legislation, so that inclusion becomes more of a daily reality across the Cayman Islands."

Chief Officer Nellie Pouchie added:

"Hearing these personal experiences reinforces why our policies must prioritise accessibility, fairness, and opportunity. With the Council now working directly with our Ministry, we are better positioned to listen, respond, and make meaningful efforts that support persons with disabilities in practical ways."

Dr. Annette Stephenson, Chairperson of the NCPD, said:

"Every story shared reflects the reality of life for persons with disabilities in the Cayman Islands. Our Council is committed to advocacy, inclusion, and awareness campaigns such as Blue Spot, while also continuing to encourage greater efforts in accessibility and opportunity. We value the Ministry’s support as we work together to ensure that all persons with disabilities are seen, heard, and empowered."

The meeting also included plans to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December this year, celebrating achievements, building community, and highlighting the talents and contributions of persons with disabilities across the Islands.

For more information about the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and its initiatives, please visit their website: disabilitycouncil.gov.ky

For details on the Caribbean Disability Conference, visit www.caribbeandisabilityconference.org.